Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup (Printable)

Velvety soup with tender broccoli, sharp cheddar, and a nourishing touch of Greek yogurt.

# What You Need:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 large head broccoli, cut into florets (approximately 1 pound)
02 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
03 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
04 - 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
05 - 1 celery stalk, diced

→ Liquids

06 - 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
07 - 1 cup low-fat milk

→ Dairy

08 - 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
09 - 3/4 cup plain Greek yogurt, 2% or full-fat

→ Pantry

10 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
11 - 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
12 - 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
13 - 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
14 - 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika

# How-To Steps:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery; sauté for 4 to 5 minutes until softened. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
02 - Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir constantly for 1 to 2 minutes until no dry flour remains, creating a light paste.
03 - Gradually add vegetable broth while stirring continuously, ensuring the mixture stays smooth and free of lumps.
04 - Add broccoli florets, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 12 to 15 minutes until broccoli is very tender.
05 - Use an immersion blender to puree the soup directly in the pot until smooth, or carefully transfer to a blender in batches and return to the pot.
06 - Stir in milk and shredded cheddar cheese. Cook over low heat, stirring frequently, until cheese is fully melted and soup is creamy. Do not allow to boil.
07 - Remove from heat and whisk in Greek yogurt until fully incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
08 - Ladle into bowls and serve hot, garnished with extra cheddar or a dollop of yogurt if desired.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • Lighter than traditional broccoli cheddar soup thanks to Greek yogurt instead of heavy cream
  • Ready in just 40 minutes from start to finish
  • Packed with nutritious vegetables and protein-rich ingredients
  • Perfect for meal prep and freezes beautifully for later enjoyment
  • Family-friendly with a creamy texture that even picky eaters will love
02 -
  • Use freshly shredded cheddar cheese rather than pre-shredded for better melting and creamier texture
  • Don't skip the flour step—it helps thicken the soup and prevents separation
  • Add Greek yogurt off the heat to prevent curdling and maintain smooth consistency
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
  • Reheat gently over low heat, stirring frequently, and avoid boiling to preserve the creamy texture
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